LeBron James shades Knicks during post-game presser
By Jaylyn Cook
The 2016 Finals MVP dinged the Knickerbockers regarding their desire to cut ties with J.R. Smith.
LeBron James is easily the best basketball player in the world right now, but tonight he revealed another aspect of his layered personality: SAVAGE.
During the Cleveland Cavaliers’ post-championship press conference, James decided to troll the New York Knicks by rubbing salt in their J.R. Smith-sized wounds.
Referring to last year’s trade between the Cavs and the Knicks that sent Timofey Mozgov and Iman Shumpert to Cleveland, James brought up the fact that the Knicks brass wanted to “throw in” the streaky-shooting Smith – as if he were a box fan or some other random trinket businesses add to show customers how much they’re appreciated.
New York Times sports reporter Scott Cacciola Tweeted this from the presser:
LeBron recounting how the Knicks wanted to "throw in JR" in their deal last season. LeBron expressing gratitude for the Knicks' generosity.
— Scott Cacciola (@ScottCacciola) June 20, 2016
It’s apparent that the explanation for Smith’s decline in New York was caused by Phil Jackson’s insistence to run the Triangle Offense, despite having a laughably bad roster that still kept the likes of Lou Amundson and Lance Thomas employed for another season. Once he broke free from those chains, Smith was free to play his own game alongside the King – which turned out great for them both in the end.
Plus, this just goes to show that trolling the Knicks will probably remain on of the greatest traditions in NBA culture. They can’t even enjoy their early off-season without being on the receiving end of well-timed shade. Typical.
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